Online vs. Offline: What Sets Merkur Casino Games Apart?

Many of the well-known and popular slots from Merkur arcades have also made their way into non GamStop casinos. Some of these titles can also be found on UK-friendly offshore casino platforms, giving players even more flexibility in where they enjoy their favorite games. Only rarely have they been adapted to the design and gameplay. Nevertheless, there are some major differences between Merkur online and Merkur in the casino.

Payments and Odds

A significant difference lies in the games’ payout rates. In the online versions, most Merkur slots have payouts between 95 and 96 percent. For slot machines, however, the payout rate is not even known exactly. However, it is certainly significantly lower than the level of online slots and is estimated at just 60 to 70 percent.

There are also, of course, significant differences in the payment methods themselves. At Merkur slot machines in the arcade, you can only use cash. This isn’t possible online, of course. However, dozens of payment methods are available online, such as credit cards, online banking, or e-wallets, which you can’t use in-person.

Regulation

There are also significant differences in regulation. Various federal and state laws apply to Merkur’s offline slots. For example, they stipulate how many machines are allowed in a bar, the minimum distance between two arcades, and the applicable closing times. However, there are no regulations regarding payouts from games.

Online, Merkur slots are regulated by a different body, namely the Malta Gaming Authority and others. Much stricter regulations apply here, for example, regarding money laundering, player protection, and payout rates. Therefore, if you see Merkur games in a reputable online casino, you can be sure that the machines have been tested and are fair.

Identity Verification

While the two variants differ in terms of identity verification, it is important for both. Since 2021, it has no longer been possible to enter arcades without proof of identity. A so-called player card, on which all personal data is stored, is required. Furthermore, an automatic comparison is carried out against the GamStop blocking file. This system has been heavily criticized by data protection advocates, and not entirely unjustly.

Online, players must also identify themselves, unless they’re at a casino without verification. This is done using photos of their ID and proof of address, which must be sent to the casino’s support team. Completely anonymous gaming is therefore not possible online either, as withdrawals are only possible in very rare cases without identity verification.

Availability

Another big difference is the availability of the games. In a casino or arcade, you can only play Merkur slots when the venue is open. This doesn’t matter online. Non GamStop casinos are open 24/7, so you can spin a few Merkur games whenever you feel like it.

Merkur Casino Games on Smartphones and Tablet

Since mobile gaming is becoming increasingly important in non GamStop casinos, most developers are committed to optimizing their slots for mobile devices as much as possible. Merkur has also adapted many older games and most new releases for smartphones and tablets.

However, in direct comparison with slots from other developers, Merkur’s games don’t seem to have been designed for smartphone play. Display errors, delays, and crashes often occur when loading games on mobile. For the best possible Merkur gaming experience, we therefore recommend opening the slots on your PC. Mobile gaming is still possible, albeit with minor limitations that you will have to accept.

What are the Best Merkur Alternatives?

At the non GamStop casino, you’ll find slots from a variety of good providers. Which slots you ultimately like best is a matter of taste. We’ve certainly considered which providers offer good Merkur alternatives.

Below we present what we believe to be the ten best Merkur alternatives, each featuring the provider’s best game: